Manny Pacquiao is considered one of the greatest figures in boxing for several years now, but he is still hungry for more and even at 46 years of age, ‘PacMan’ is preparing to step into the ring once again.
On July 19, he will face Mario Barrios for the World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight title, hoping to become the oldest champion in that division.
However, the Filipino’s return has generated both admiration for the boxer and criticism against him and even concern about the repercussions of continuing to expose himself to the risks of the boxing world for so many years.
When was Manny Pacquiao’s last fight?
Pacquiao has not fought professionally since 2021, and in those four years has only participated in exhibition bouts, such as the one he held in 2023 against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo, which ended in a draw. Many observers noted that “PacMan’s” performance was far from the level that made him a legend of the sport.
Comparisons with George Foreman, who in 1994 became the world heavyweight champion at the age of 45, have been quick to surface. However, unlike Foreman, who had an active career for years before winning the title again, Pacquiao returns after a considerably more inactive period, which increases doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level.
Tyson Fury backs Manny Pacquiao
Despite these concerns, there are those who remain steadfast in their support for Pacquiao. One of them is heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, who posted a brief but meaningful message on his Instagram account after watching a training session of Pacquiao: “What a legend at 40!”. The phrase, although simple, reflects the admiration and respect that many within boxing still feel for the Filipino.
On the other hand, not everyone shares Fury’s optimism. Amir Tyson, son of Mike Tyson, recently expressed concern for Pacquiao’s welfare:
I really hope Manny lives up to the hype and doesn’t get hurt. If this was 2012, I would have no doubt he would win. But now I’m not sure, we’ll see
Pacquiao’s return is one of the biggest challenges of his career. Regardless of the outcome of the fight against Barrios, his decision to fight again at this age already puts him in a category reserved for the bravest in boxing.
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